Pork Katsu and Tonkatsu Sauce

Pork Katsu and Tonkatsu Sauce

Pork Katsu and Tonkatsu Sauce

 

4 (1/2-inch thick) boneless pork chops

2 tablespoons all-purpose or rice flour

1 egg, beaten

1/2 cup panko (Japanese style bread crumbs)

Vegetable oil

 

Tonkatsu sauce:

 

1/4 C. ketchup

1/3 C. soy sauce

1/4 C. Worcestershire sauce

1 T. hoisin sauce or tangy bbq sauce

garlic powder to taste

black pepper to taste

 

Prepare sauce by whisking together all ingredients and refrigerating.  Between two sheets of waxed paper beat pork cutlets as thin as possible with a meat mallet. Season cutlets with salt and pepper. Beat the egg in a low bowl. Coat the cutlets first in the flour, then the egg, and finally the panko crumbs. Over medium high heat pan fry pork for approx. 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and no longer pink inside. Serve warm with tonkatsu sauce for dipping.

Spinach & Cranberry Salad

Spinach & Cranberry Salad

Cranberry-Spinach-Side-Salad1/4 cup olive oil
3 tablespoons sugar
2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
2 tablespoons cider vinegar
1 tablespoon sesame seeds, toasted (350 degrees for 10 minutes)
Full pinch paprika

1/2 lb. (8 ounces) spinach, rinsed
1/2 cup fresh, finely diced onion
1/2 cup dried cranberries (I use Craisins)
1/3 cup blanched and slivered almonds (pine nuts or walnuts are also excellent), toasted (350 degrees for 10 minutes)

After rinsing the spinach, pat lightly with clean paper towels to remove any excess water. Set aside to dry further while you make the dressing. To make the dressing: In a small bowl, or a jar/bottle with a tight lid, combine the oil, sugar, vinegars, sesame seeds, and paprika. Whisk or shake well, until thoroughly combined. To make the salad: Toss spinach, onion, cranberries, and almonds in a large bowl until combined. Drizzle all of the dressing over the top of the salad and toss gently to distribute it evenly throughout the salad

Cape Gooseberry-Rose Preserves

Cape Gooseberry-Rose Preserves

Cape Gooseberry-Rose Preserves

 

1 ¼ lb. Cape Gooseberries, husks and stems removed

1 ½ C. sugar

3 T. bottled Lemon Juice (fresh squeezed is not safe to use)

2 tsp. Rose Water

 

Place 2 small plates in freezer to chill. In large saucepan, bring gooseberries, sugar, and lemon juice to boil, stirring often, over medium-high heat. Once sugar has completely dissolved, remove pot from heat and crush fruit coarse with potato masher, leaving some berries intact. Return mixture to boil over medium-high heat and cook, stirring and adjusting heat as needed, until mixture registers 217 to 220 degrees, 12 to 15 minutes. (Temperature will be lower at higher elevations; click here for more information.) Remove pot from heat. To test consistency, place 1 tsp. preserves on chilled plate and freeze for 2 minutes. Drag your finger through preserves on plate; preserves have correct consistency when your finger leaves distinct trail. If runny, return pot to heat and simmer for 1 to 3 minutes longer before retesting. Skim any foam from surface of preserves using spoon and stir in rose water. Meanwhile, place two 1-C. jars in bowl and place under hot running water until heated through, 1 to 2 minutes; shake dry. 5. Using funnel and ladle, portion hot preserves into hot jars. Let cool to room temperature, cover, and refrigerate until preserves are set, 12 to 24 hours. (Preserves can be refrigerated for up to 2 months.) You may can for long term storage as well.

Sweet & Sour Layered Summer Squashes

Sweet & Sour Layered Summer Squashes

Sweet & Sour Layered Summer Squashes

 

2-3 large Zucchini

5 cloves Garlic

1 C. each of balsamic vinegar and white wine vinegar

1 1/2 C. Water

1/2 C. of sugar (I used coconut sugar here)

1 T. of salt

2 T. of mustard seeds

 

Wash the zucchini and cut thinly with a mandolin or knife. Layer them in the jar so as little space as possible remains in the glass. Peel and roughly dice garlic and add to jars. Now mix all other ingredients well and bring to the boil in a saucepan until everything is dissolved. Pour over zucchini, leaving a headspace of ¾ inch. Cover with lid and ring to fingertip tightness. Process in water canning bath for 30 minutes at 90 degrees. Allow to cool and remove rings to store in pantry.

Lemon-Ricotta Pasta with Seared Scallops

Lemon-Ricotta Pasta with Seared Scallops

2602082554_73b3008cc1_b1 box pappardelle or fettuccine pasta
12 large fresh sea scallops
4 T. good-quality olive oil, divided
1 T. butter
Zest of 1 lemon
¼ cup lemon juice
1½ cups fresh green peas, shelled and blanched
4 T. fresh thyme, minced (lemon thyme, if you have it)
Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 container (475g) ricotta cheese

Cook the pasta per package directions until al dente. While pasta is cooking, rinse scallops and pat dry. Heat 1 T. olive oil and 1 T. butter over high heat in a skillet until foamy. Sprinkle scallops with a little salt and pepper; place in skillet in single layer. Cook, turning once, until brown on outside and just opaque in center, about 2 minutes per side. Remove from pan and set aside. Drain pasta and return to the pot over low heat. Stir in lemon zest, juice, remaining 3 T. olive oil, peas, and thyme. Toss to coat, then season with salt and lots of pepper. Add the ricotta and mix gently until pasta is coated evenly. To serve, divide the pasta between four plates, topping each with three scallops and a sprig of fresh thyme.

Pineapple and Watermelon Salad

Pineapple and Watermelon Salad

Pineapple and Watermelon Salad

 

1 pineapple cut into bite-sized pieces

1/4 C. fresh basil thinly sliced

1 lime juiced

1/2 watermelon cut into bite-sized pieces

 

Mix pineapple pieces with basil and lime juice. Place watermelon pieces in serving dish and pour pineapple over the top. So not stir together. Garnish with lime and basil.

Instant Pot Scalloped Potatoes

Instant Pot Scalloped Potatoes

Instant Pot Scalloped Potatoes

 

1 yellow onion, minced

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 tsp. olive oil

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

1 1/2 C. 2% milk

8 Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into Vs-inch-thick slices

¾ C. grated sharp cheddar cheese

3 T. panko bread crumbs

 

Set the Instant Pot to “sauté, medium heat.” Add the onion, garlic, olive oil, and a pinch each of salt and pepper and sauté for 5 minutes, until the onion starts to soften. Add the milk and set the rack and steamer basket in the pot. Place the potatoes in the steamer basket. Cover and cook on high pressure for 5 minutes. Preheat the broiler. Quick-release the pressure. Carefully lift the steamer basket (use oven mitts) out of the pot. Spread the potatoes in a 9 x 13-inch baking dish. Hit “cancel.” Remove the rack from the pot and add 1/2 C. of the cheese to the milk. Stir together until the cheese melts, then pour the cheese sauce over the potatoes. Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 C. cheese and the panko over the top of the potatoes. Broil for 5 minutes and serve.

Cocoa-Spiced Beef Tenderloin with Pineapple Salsa

Cocoa-Spiced Beef Tenderloin with Pineapple Salsa

cocoa-spiced-beef½ T. vegetable oil
1 beef tenderloin roast (16 oz)

For salsa:

½ C. canned diced pineapple, in fruit juice, chopped into small pieces
¼ C. red onion, minced
2 tsp. fresh cilantro, rinsed, dried, and chopped (or substitute ¼ tsp. dried coriander)
1 T. lemon juice

For seasoning:

1 tsp. ground black pepper
1 tsp. ground coriander
1 T. ground cinnamon
¼ tsp. ground allspice
1 T. cocoa powder (unsweetened)
2 tsp. chili powder
¼ tsp. salt

Preheat oven to 375 ºF. For the salsa, combine all ingredients and toss well. Let sit for 10–15 minutes to marinate while preparing the seasoning and cooking the meat. For the beef tenderloin seasoning, combine all ingredients. Lightly oil the tenderloin and spread an even layer of the dry seasoning over the entire roast. Place the seasoned roast on a roasting or broiling pan and roast for 10–15 minutes (to a minimum internal temperature of 145 ºF). Let cool for 5 minutes before carving into 16 slices (1 ounce each). Serve four slices of the tenderloin with ¼ cup salsa on the side.

Yield: 4 servings
Calories: 215
Fat: 9g
Fiber: 2g

Instant Pot Creamy Spinach & Goat Cheese Frittata

Instant Pot Creamy Spinach & Goat Cheese Frittata

Instant Pot Creamy Spinach & Goat Cheese Frittata

 

8 large eggs

2 T. milk or water

½ tsp. fine sea salt

¼ tsp. ground black pepper

1 tsp. salted butter or ghee, for greasing

½ C. chopped baby spinach

½ C. diced white mushrooms

¼ C. diced tomato

1/4 C. crumbled goat cheese

1 C. water

 

Combine the eggs, milk, sea salt, and black pepper in a high-powered blender. Blend on high until frothy, about 30 seconds. You can also whisk the mixture in a large bowl if you do not have a blender. Use butter or ghee to grease a 7-inch baking dish that fits inside your electric pressure cooker. Layer the spinach, mushrooms, tomato, and goat cheese in the bottom of the dish. Pour the egg mixture on top. Cover the pan with foil and place on top of the trivet. Pour 1 C. water into the pressure cooker. Carefully lower the trivet and dish into the pot. Place the lid on the cooker and make sure the vent valve is in the SEALING position. Using the display panel, select the MANUAL/PRESSURE COOK function and HIGH PRESSURE, and use the +/- buttons until the display reads 30 minutes. When the cooker beeps to let you know it’s finished, switch the vent valve from the SEALING to the VENTING position, administering a quick release. Use caution while the steam escapes—it’s hot. Open the cooker and remove the frittata, then slice and serve warm. Note: Make the frittata ahead of time and reheat in the microwave for a quick breakfast in the morning. Store in the refrigerator for up to 6 days.  You can change the vegetables, use a different cheese, add in cooked sausage or bacon.

Instant Pot Beef Bourguignon

Instant Pot Beef Bourguignon

Instant Pot Beef Bourguignon

 

1 pound beef chuck, cut into 1/2-inch cubes

1 T. all-purpose flour

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

1 T. olive oil

2 onions, roughly chopped

3 carrots, cut on the diagonal into 1/4-inch-thick slices

2 celery stalks, cut on the diagonal into 1/4-inch-thick slices

2 garlic cloves, chopped

1 C. sliced white mushrooms

1 C. dry red wine

1 C. beef broth

1 T. tomato paste

2 fresh thyme sprigs

2 T. cornstarch

½ C. frozen pearl onions, thawed

Chopped fresh parsley (optional)

 

In a large bowl, toss together the beef, flour, and a sprinkling of salt and pepper. Set the Instant Pot to “sauté, medium heat.” Once it reads “hot,” add ½ T. of the olive oil and, working in batches, brown the beef in the hot pot, transferring it to a plate as you finish. Add the remaining ½ T. of olive oil, onions, carrots, celery, and a light sprinkling of salt to the pot and sauté the vegetables for 5 minutes, until softened. Add the garlic and mushrooms and sauté for 2 minutes. Hit “cancel.” Add the wine and scrape the bottom of the pot to loosen up any browned bits, then add the broth and mix in the tomato paste. Return the beef to the pot and mix to combine. Place the thyme sprigs on top of the stew. Cover and cook on high pressure for 30 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release the remaining pressure. Pluck out the thyme stems (the leaves will most likely have fallen off). Transfer ¼ C. of the broth to a bowl and whisk it with the cornstarch. Return the cornstarch mixture to the pot and mix well. Add the pearl onions. Set the pot to “sauté, high heat” and cook for 5 minutes, to burn off any alcohol and cook the pearl onions. Taste and add more salt and pepper as needed. 6. Serve in bowls and top with parsley if desired. This stew gets better

Greek-Style Flank Steak with Tangy Yogurt Sauce

Greek-Style Flank Steak with Tangy Yogurt Sauce

greekstea1 beef flank steak (12 oz.)

For marinade:
¼ C. lemon juice
1 T. olive oil
2 tsp. fresh oregano, rinsed, dried, and chopped (or ½ tsp. dried)
1 T. garlic, minced (about 2–3 cloves)

For yogurt sauce:
1 C. cucumber, peeled, seeded, and chopped
1 C. nonfat plain yogurt
2 T. lemon juice
1 T. fresh dill, rinsed, dried, and chopped (or 1 tsp. dried)
1 T. garlic, minced (about 2–3 cloves)
½ tsp. salt

For the marinade, combine lemon juice, olive oil, oregano, and garlic in a large bowl. Lay steak in a flat container with sides and pour marinade over the steak. Let the steak marinate for at least 20 minutes or up to 24 hours, turning several times. Combine all the ingredients for the yogurt sauce. Set yogurt sauce aside for at least 15 minutes to blend flavors. (Sauce can be prepared up to 1 hour in advance and refrigerated.) Preheat oven broiler on high temperature, with the rack 3 inches from heat source. Broil steak for about 10 minutes on each side (to a minimum internal temperature of 145 ºF). Let cool for 5 minutes before carving. Slice thinly across the grain into 12 slices (1 ounce each). Serve three slices of the steak with ½ cup yogurt sauce on the side.

Yield: 4 servings
Calories: 181
Fat: 7g
Fiber: 0g

Instant Pot Butternut Squash Hash

Instant Pot Butternut Squash Hash

Instant Pot Butternut Squash Hash

 

1/2 C. 1/4-inch-cubed butternut squash

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

1 tsp. olive oil

1 onion, roughly chopped

1 bell pepper, roughly chopped

tsp. paprika

tsp. chili powder

5 rosemary needles, minced

1 garlic clove, minced

2 large eggs

 

In the Instant Pot, combine the butternut squash, a pinch each of salt and pepper, and the olive oil. Set to “sauté, medium heat” and cook until lightly browned, about 5 minutes, stirring often to avoid burning. Add the onion and bell pepper and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the paprika, chili powder, rosemary, and garlic and toss to combine. Hit “cancel.” Make 2 wells in the hash and crack the eggs into the wells. Cover, choose the “egg” setting, and cook for 1 minute. Quick release the pressure and serve.

Chicken Picadillo

Chicken Picadillo

5a66ca51be40a101257d0e30b9add04a2 tsp. olive oil
1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
1 medium green bell pepper, rinsed and finely chopped
1 medium red bell pepper, rinsed and finely chopped
1½ T. garlic, mashed (about 3 cloves)
12 oz. boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into thin strips
1/3 C. no-salt-added tomato sauce
1/3 C. low-sodium chicken broth
1/3 C. lemon juice
¼ tsp. ground cumin
2 bay leaves
1/3 C. water
¼ C. golden seedless raisins

1 T. fresh cilantro, rinsed, dried, and chopped (or substitute 1 tsp. dried coriander)
1 T. capers, drained
2 T. green olives, chopped

Heat olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add the onion, bell peppers, and garlic, and sauté until vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes. Add the chicken, and stir fry for another 5–10 minutes, until chicken is no longer pink inside. Add the tomato sauce, chicken broth, lemon juice, cumin, bay leaves, water, and raisins to the vegetables and chicken. Cover the pan, and reduce the heat. Simmer for 10 minutes. Remove the bay leaves, and garnish with fresh cilantro, capers, and green olives, and serve.

Instant Pot Hoppin’ John and Beef

Instant Pot Hoppin’ John and Beef

Instant Pot Hoppin’ John and Beef

 

2 lbs. beef stew meat

1 bag 16 oz. dried black-eyed peas

1 can 10 oz. beef broth

5 carrots cleaned and diced

1 celery stalk cleaned and diced

salt and pepper to taste

½ C. flour

2 T. oil

 

Place flour, salt and pepper and stew meat into a zipper bag. Shake bag until almost all of the stew meat is covered. Place oil in the Instant Pot and turn it onto sauté. Once the oil is hot, place the beef into the oil after shaking off the excess flour. Meanwhile, rinse and sort the black eyed peas to remove stones, then drain. Use ½ C. of the broth to deglaze the bottom of the Instant Pot. Put the beef, peas, broth, carrots, and celery in Instant Pot. Turn the Instant Pot onto high pressure and cook for 20 minutes. Natural release. If you prefer softer beans, cook for 25-30 minutes.

Spanish Style Shrimp Stew

Spanish Style Shrimp Stew

1 T. olive oil
1 T. garlic, minced (about 2–3 cloves)
1 C fennel (about 1 bulb, outer layers removed), rinsed and diced (or substitute leek or onion)
2 cans (14½ oz. each) no-salt-added diced tomatoes
1 C low-sodium chicken broth
2 lb. new (red) potatoes, rinsed and quartered (about 2 C)
12 oz. large shrimp, peeled and deveined (about 24 pieces)
2 T. fresh oregano, rinsed, dried, and chopped (or 2 tsp dried)
2 T. lemon juice
2 T. fresh basil, rinsed, dried, and chopped (or 2 tsp dried)
¼ tsp salt
¼ tsp ground black pepper

Heat olive oil in a large sauté pan. Add garlic and fennel, and cook on medium heat, stirring often, until the fennel pieces begin to soften, about 5–7 minutes. Add tomatoes, chicken broth, and potatoes, and bring to a boil. Lower temperature to a gentle simmer, and cook until the potatoes begin to soften, about 10 minutes. Add shrimp, oregano, lemon juice, and basil, and mix gently. Continue to simmer until the shrimp are pink and fully cooked, about 5 minutes (to a minimum internal temperature of 145 °F). Add salt and pepper.

Yield: 4 servings
Serving Size: 1½ cups stew (each serving to include about six shrimp)
Calories: 211
Fat: 5g
Fiber: 4g

Burrata with Chanterelles, Dill & Browned Butter

Burrata with Chanterelles, Dill & Browned Butter

Burrata with Chanterelles, Dill & Browned Butter

 

1 small burrata

1 baguette (or crostini)

150 g fresh girolles (chanterelles)

1 T. butter + 1 T. oil for frying

1 small garlic clove, finely chopped

50 g salted butter

1/2 lemon

plenty of fresh dill

salt and pepper

 

Remove the burrata from the fridge at least 30 minutes before you need it. Fry the mushrooms in oil an butter. Add the garlic towards the end. Season and put aside. Brown the butter in a medium-sized pan on medium-high heat. Wait for it to foam up a lot and turn brown (but not dark) and smell nutty. Remove from heat. Place the burrata in a shallow bowl or something with an edge. Arrange the girolles around the burrata. Spoon over the browned butter. Squeeze some lemon over the whole thing. Scatter with plenty of chopped dill. Season one last time and serve with bread.

Teriyaki-Glazed Salmon with Stir-Fried Vegetables

Teriyaki-Glazed Salmon with Stir-Fried Vegetables

salmon-stir-fry-veggies2 T. light teriyaki sauce
¼ C mirin (or sweet rice wine)
2 T. rice vinegar
2 T. scallions (green onions), rinsed and minced
1½ T. ginger, minced (or 1 tsp ground)
12 oz. salmon fillets, cut into 4 portions (3 oz. each)

1 bag (12 oz.) frozen vegetable stir-fry
½ T. peanut oil or vegetable oil
½ T. garlic, minced (about 1 clove)
1 T. ginger, minced (or 1 tsp ground)
1 T. scallions (green onions), rinsed and minced
1 T. lite soy sauce

Thaw frozen vegetables in the microwave (or place entire bag in a bowl of hot water for about 10 minutes). Set aside. Preheat oven to 350 ºF. Combine teriyaki sauce, mirin, rice vinegar, scallions, and ginger. Mix well. Pour over salmon, and marinate for 10–15 minutes. Remove salmon from the marinade, and discard unused portion. Place salmon on a baking sheet, and bake for 10–15 minutes or until fish flakes easily with a fork in the thickest part (to a minimum internal temperature of 145 °F). Meanwhile, heat oil in a large wok or sauté pan. Add garlic, ginger, and scallions, and cook gently but do not brown, about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Add thawed vegetables, and continue to stir fry for 2–3 minutes or until heated through. Add soy sauce.

Yield: 4 servings
Serving Size: one piece of salmon with 1 cup of vegetables
Calories: 253
Fat: 11g
Fiber: 3g

Cherries in Vanilla Syrup

Cherries in Vanilla Syrup

Cherries in Vanilla Syrup

 

2 lbs. cherries, stemmed and pitted

1 1/2 C. sugar

1 vanilla bean, split lengthwise, seeds scraped

2 strips lemon peel (optional)

 

Combine cherries, sugar, vanilla bean, lemon peel (if using), and 3/4 C. water in a medium pot. Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat, and cook until cherries are dark red and softened, and syrup is thickened, 20-25 minutes. Let cool slightly, and transfer cherries and syrup to glass canning jar or container. Seal. Refrigerated, cherries will keep up to 1 month.

Best Snickerdoodles Ever

Best Snickerdoodles Ever

bestsicks1/2 cup butter, softened
1/2 cup shortening
1 1/2 cups white sugar
2 eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 3/4cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons cream of tartar
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons white sugar
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cream together butter, shortening, 1 1/2 cups sugar, the eggs and the vanilla. Blend in the flour, cream of tartar, soda and salt. Shape dough by rounded spoonfuls into balls. Mix the 2 tablespoons sugar and the cinnamon. Roll balls of dough in mixture. Place 2 inches apart on ungreased baking sheets. Bake 8 to 10 minutes, or until set but not too hard. Remove immediately from baking sheets.

Bloody Mary Pickled Asparagus

Bloody Mary Pickled Asparagus

Bloody Mary Pickled Asparagus

 

2 1/2 C. cider vinegar

2 1/2 C. water

1 1/2 C. tomato juice

8 garlic cloves, minced

3 T. bottled lemon juice

2 T. Worcestershire sauce

1 T. canning and pickling salt

1 T. prepared horseradish

2 tsp. celery seeds

1 1/2 tsp. red pepper flakes

1 tsp. pepper

2 pounds thick asparagus, trimmed to measure 6 inches long

2 (1/4 inch thick) round lemon slices

 

Bring vinegar, water, tomato juice, garlic, lemon juice, Worcestershire, salt, horseradish, celery seeds, pepper flakes, and pepper to boil in Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Carefully add asparagus to vinegar mixture with tips facing same direction. Return to brief boil, then immediately remove from heat. . Meanwhile, place two 1-quart jars in bowl and place under hot running water until heated through. 1 to 2 minutes; shake dry. Using tongs, carefully pack asparagus into hot jars, tips facing up. Using funnel and ladle, pour hot brine over asparagus to cover, and gently press lemon slice into each jar until just submerged. Let jars cool to room temperature, cover with lids, and refrigerate for at least 5 days before serving. (Asparagus can be refrigerated for up to 1 month; flavor will continue to mature over time.)

 

 

Baked Brie Dip with Sun Dried Tomatoes and Thyme

Baked Brie Dip with Sun Dried Tomatoes and Thyme

Baked Brie Dip with Sun Dried Tomatoes and Thyme2 (8 oz) packages Brie cheese

2 tsp fresh garlic, minced

1 tsp fresh thyme leaves, stripped from strips

1 cup sun dried tomatoes packed in oil, drained well and chopped

1/2 tsp fresh cracked black pepper

French bread crostini or crackers

 

Remove the rind from the Brie.  Cut the Brie into chunks.  Drain the sun dried tomatoes well, and chop into bite sized or small pieces.  Combine the minced garlic, fresh thyme leaves, and sun dried tomatoes. Add in cracked black pepper.    Stir to combine. Layer cheese, then topping in an oven proof casserole or black iron skillet.  Bake for about 20 – 25 minutes.  I gave it a stir about halfway through.   The Brie will get all bubbly and melted, and slightly toasted on top.  Serve hot with French bread crostini or crackers.

Easy Cape Gooseberries Preserves

Easy Cape Gooseberries Preserves

Easy Cape Gooseberries Preserves

 

4 C. cape gooseberries, husked

1 lemon, juice and zest

1 1/2 C. sugar

Instructions

 

Combine the cape gooseberries, juice and zest of one lemon, and sugar in a heavy-bottomed sauce pan over medium heat. Bring to a boil, stirring occasionally, and reduce heat to maintain a simmer for 30 to 40 minutes. You can mash the gooseberries toward the end if you want a smoother jam, but I love the textural quality of leaving some of the fruit whole. Pour the preserves into sterilized canning jars. Seal the jars, then submerge them in a pot of water and boil for 5 minutes. Carefully remove the jars and let cool. Check the lids to make sure they’ve fully sealed; refrigerate any jars with imperfect seals. The jam will keep in the fridge for several months, so you can skip the canning process and simply refrigerate your final product after it’s cooled to room temperature.

Pork Mignons with French Applesauce

Pork Mignons with French Applesauce

pork-mignons1 pair pork tenderloins (about 2 lb)
¼ tsp. salt
1/8 tsp. ground black pepper
2 medium apples, rinsed and cored, but not peeled (try Golden Delicious or Rome)
2 T. dark seedless raisins
2 T. walnuts, broken into coarse pieces
½ tsp cinnamon
Cooking spray

Preheat oven broiler on high temperature, with the rack 3 inches from heat source. Cover broiler pan with aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Spray foil lightly with cooking spray. Set aside. Cut 8 slices (pork rounds), each 1½ inches thick, from the center of the pair of pork tenderloins. Refrigerate or freeze the ends for another use. Place pork rounds on the foil-covered broiler pan. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Set aside a few minutes while broiler heats. Meanwhile, heat ½ cup water to boiling in a medium nonstick pan. Slice cored apples from top to bottom in ¼-inch wide pieces. Add apples, raisins, walnuts, and cinnamon to boiling water. Reduce heat to medium. Cover. Simmer, stirring occasionally, until apples are soft and easily pierced with a fork. Set aside until pork is cooked. Broil pork for 5–10 minutes per side (to a minimum internal temperature of 160 °F). To serve, place two pork rounds on each dinner plate. Top with one-fourth of the applesauce.

Yield: 4 servings
Calories: 250
Fat: 9g
Fiber: 3g

Tuna Summer Rolls

Tuna Summer Rolls

Tuna Summer Rolls

 

¼ cucumber

½ carrot

½ avocado

Juice of ½ lemon

1 scallion

¾ C. (75 g) bean sprouts

Two 6-ounce (160 g) tins of tuna in water, drained

½ C. (50 g) roasted cashews, coarsely chopped

5 C. (100 g) loosely packed spinach

½ bunch of cilantro, leaves only

6 rice paper wrappers

 

3 T. peanut butter

4 T. soy sauce

2 T. sesame oil

Juice of 1 lime

 

To make the rolls: Deseed the cucumber and cut into strips. Put them in a bowl and set aside. Cut the carrot into thin strips, put in a separate bowl, and also set aside. Scoop the avocado flesh out of its skin and slice into slivers. Put in a bowl with some lemon juice to stop them from discoloring and set aside. Trim the scallion and cut into matchsticks, put in a bowl, and set aside. Put the bean sprouts, tuna, cashews, spinach, and cilantro in separate bowls. Arrange all the ingredients in front of you. Fill a large bowl with hot water and briefly soak one of the rice paper wrappers. Carefully spread it on a plate. Start by placing spinach leaves in the middle, and then top with a few strips of cucumber, carrot, and avocado before scattering on some scallion, bean sprouts, tuna, roasted cashews, and cilantro. Use only a little bit of each—pile on too much and the wrapper will tear. Carefully fold in the ends of the wrapper, then roll it up and cut in half. Repeat until all the rice paper wrappers are filled. To make the dip: Stir together the peanut butter, soy sauce, sesame oil, and lime juice with a fork. Serve the summer rolls with the dip.

 

Nettle Soup

Nettle Soup

Nettle Soup

 

3 T. butter

3 T. olive oil

1 large onion chopped

½ C. uncooked rice (wild rice is great but any rice will do)

Several large handfuls stinging nettle tops

3-4 cloves chopped garlic

8 C. chicken broth

1 tsp. kosher salt, or to taste

Mixed vegetables, or corn or whatever veggie you like that day

½ tsp. freshly ground black pepper, or to taste

Potatoes and/or leeks can also be added

 

Carefully pick nettles – gloves are recommended. Take only the top 4-6 inches of new unblemished spring plants that are less than 18 inches tall. Remove the leaves. You may need to rinse and pat them dry. Start cooking your rice. In a separate large soup pan melt the butter, add the onion and garlic and simmer until translucent. Add the chicken broth and onion and garlic mixture and nettles leaves in the soup pan and bring to a full boil. Simmer for about 20 minutes. At this point we use an immersion blender and blend until smooth. Add the vegetables, rice and salt and pepper (and any other herbs you like) and simmer a few more minutes.

Zippy Yams and Bok Choy

Zippy Yams and Bok Choy

Yams & Bok Choy2 small yams, cut into bite-size chunks
1 onion, quartered and sliced
2 large garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 teaspoon Thai chili paste
2 small heads bok choy, finely sliced
juice of 1/2 lemon

Put yams in a deep skillet and just cover them with water. Cover skillet and boil yams for 5 to 10 minutes, until soft when pierced with a fork. Add onion and garlic and continue to simmer until about half of the water has boiled away. Add vegetarian Worcestershire sauce, chili paste, and bok choy. Simmer until bok choy is soft. Sprinkle lemon juice over the mixture and serve.

Yield: 4 servings
Calories: 88
Fat: .6g
Fiber: 5g

Open Faced Dungeness Crab Melt

Open Faced Dungeness Crab Melt

Open Faced Dungeness Crab Melt

 

10 tomatillos, sliced in half shell removed

1/4 cup heavy cream

4 1 inch sourdough bread slices

2 T. butter

1 lb. Dungeness crab

1 cup Tillamook white cheddar cheese, shredded

1 cup Tillamook medium cheddar cheese, shredded

3 T. mayonnaise

4 tsp. green onion, thinly chopped plus more for garnish

 

Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Place tomatillo halves on a sheet pan and roast until charred about 10 minutes.  Remove from oven, reserve 4 halves of tomatillo for crab mixture. Blend the remaining tomatillos with a splash of heavy cream.  Set aside. Heat a cast iron grill pan over medium high heat. Butter both sides of each slice of sourdough bread. Grill on each side and set aside. Drain excess moisture from crab meat and place crab meat in a bowl.  Add Tillamook white cheddar cheese, Tillamook medium cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, green onion and 4 halves of the roasted tomatillo. Gently fold together.  Place grilled slices of sourdough bread on a sheet pan. Top with 1/4 of the crab mixture. Place under broiler until melted and dripping down the sides. Place a spoonful of tomatillo sauce on each serving plate and toasted crab melt on top. Garnish with thinly sliced green onions. (This is an open faced sandwich. Photo shows two slices of grilled toast, but recipe only calls for one.)

Balsamic Glazed Onion Crostini

Balsamic Glazed Onion Crostini

bals1/4 cup Butter
3 large (5 cups) yellow onions, quartered, thinly sliced
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
2 teaspoons sugar
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

1 (about 11-ounce) loaf rustic French baguette, cut into 30 (1/2-inch) slices
1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
1/4 cup balsamic reduction glaze

Balsamic glaze can be found in the glaze or vinegar section of the grocery store. To make balsamic reduction at home, combine 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar and 2 teaspoons sugar in 1-quart saucepan. Cook over medium heat until mixture comes to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low; cook until liquid is reduced by 1/4. Measure desired amount for recipe. Store refrigerated up to 1 week.

Melt butter in 12-inch nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until sizzling. Stir in onions, salt and pepper; continue cooking, stirring occasionally, 5 minutes or until onions begin to soften. Stir in sugar; cook, stirring occasionally and scraping brown bits off bottom of pan, 20-25 minutes or until onions are golden brown. (Reduce heat, if necessary, to keep from burning.) Stir in parsley; place onion mixture into bowl. Heat oven to 400ºF. Place bread slices onto baking sheet. Divide onion mixture evenly among bread slices. Top each with blue cheese. Bake 5-7 minutes or until bread is toasted and cheese is melted. Place onto serving platter; drizzle with balsamic glaze. Serve immediately.

Parmesan Cauliflower Bites

Parmesan Cauliflower Bites

parmcauli1/2 cup vegetable oil
1 cup Panko
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon Emeril’s Essence Creole Seasoning
4 cups cauliflower florets
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. In a large bowl, combine Panko, Parmesan and Emeril’s Essence; set aside. Working in batches, dredge cauliflower in flour, dip into eggs, then dredge in Panko mixture, pressing to coat. Add cauliflower to the skillet, 5 or 6 at a time, and cook until evenly golden and crispy, about 2-3 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate. Serve immediately.

Savory Salmon & Chèvre Cheesecake

Savory Salmon & Chèvre Cheesecake

½ ounce Parmesan, grated
1 ounce white bread (about 1 slice), quartered
6 ounces shallots, peeled
1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon unsalted butter, divided
1 pound reduced-fat cream cheese, cut into 1-inch pieces, at room temperature
10 ounces chèvre, cut into 1-inch pieces
3 large eggs
1 tablespoon cornstarch
½ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 teaspoons dill weed
2 ounces smoked salmon, diced

In Food Processor fitted with the metal blade, start the machine and add the cheese and bread through the small feed tube. Process until mixture becomes fine crumbs, about 30 seconds; remove and reserve. Place shallots in the work bowl; pulse until finely chopped. Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a 10-inch skillet over medium heat. Cook chopped shallots until softened, 3 to 4 minutes; reduce heat to low and cook until golden and caramelized, about 20 to 25 minutes. Let cool. Coat a 6-inch springform pan with the remaining 1 teaspoon butter; dust with breadcrumbs / cheese mixture to coat. Place cream cheese and chèvre in a medium bowl. Using a hand mixer, mix on low speed until smooth. Add eggs, cornstarch, salt, pepper and dill weed. Transfer the cream cheese mixture to the prepared springform pan. Top cream cheese mixture with diced smoked salmon and cooled caramelized shallots. Wrap the outside of the pan with a sheet of extra-strength aluminum foil so that the foil comes up the sides of the pan but does not go above the rim. Place the cooking rack in the ceramic pot of the Cuisinart Slow Cooker. Add 3 cups hot water to the ceramic pot. Place the cheesecake on the rack. Set on High and cook for 2 hours. Allow cheesecake to rest in slow cooker for 30 minutes on Warm. Remove cheesecake from slow cooker and discard foil. Place cheesecake on a rack to cool. Cover and refrigerate for a minimum of 8 hours before serving. Before serving, run a sharp knife around the edges to loosen and carefully remove the sides of the springform pan. Serve as a cheese spread with crackers, pita or bagel chips, or arrange thin slices on a green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette.

Yield: 16 appetizers servings
Calories: 158
Fat: 11g
Fiber: 0g

Color Changing Galaxy Lemonade

Color Changing Galaxy Lemonade

Color Changing Galaxy Lemonade

 

5 T. tea containing butterfly pea

10 C. boiling water

1 C. lemon juice or lemonade

Sugar or honey, as desired

Star sprinkles

Ice

 

Prepare the tea at least one hour in advance and allow to cool. Boil water, add the butterfly pea-containing tea and let steep at least 5 minutes. Remove tea leaves and allow tea to cool for at least 15 minutes. Then place the pitcher of tea in the fridge to cool completely. Fill tall glasses with ice and fill 3/4 of the way with iced butterfly pea tea. Stir your sweetener of choice into the lemon juice (sugar, honey or other). Pour about 1/4 C. sweetened lemon juice into each glasses and watch the color change. Add star sprinkles, if desired, to complete the galaxy effect and enjoy!

Caramel Shortbread Squares

Caramel Shortbread Squares

caramelsquares2/3 cup butter, softened
1/4 cup white sugar
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup butter
1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
2 tablespoons light corn syrup
1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
1 1/4 cups milk chocolate chips

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, mix together 2/3 cup butter, white sugar, and flour until evenly crumbly. Press into a 9-inch square baking pan. Bake for 20 minutes. In a 2-quart saucepan, combine 1/2 cup butter, brown sugar, corn syrup, and sweetened condensed milk. Bring to a boil. Continue to boil for 5 minutes. Remove from heat and beat vigorously with a wooden spoon for about 3 minutes. Pour over baked crust (warm or cool). Cool until it begins to fi rm. Place chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat for 1 minute, then stir and continue to heat and stir at 20-second intervals until chocolate is melted and smooth. Pour chocolate over the caramel layer and spread evenly to cover completely. Chill. Cut into 1-inch squares. These need to be small because they are so rich.

Spinach & Wild Rice Casserole

Spinach & Wild Rice Casserole

4 cups cooked wild rice
2 lbs. washed fresh spinach
4 eggs
2 big bunches green onions
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
1/2 lb. cheese grated fine
4 T. butter
1 Cup sunflower seeds
4 T. chopped parsley
2 T. sesame seeds

Beat 4 eggs with salt, pepper, stir into rice. Stir in cheese and parsley. Tear stems .from spinach and chop these tough stems very fine. Fry them lightly with 2 big bunches of green onions chopped fine (including most of the green part). Tear up or chop coarsely the spinach leaves and stir them into the frying pan to wilt a little. Then stir it all into the rice mix. Stir in some sunflower seeds. Taste for seasoning. Pack into 1 or 2 greased heavy casseroles. Top with toasted sesame seeds and 2 T. melted butter sprinkled around on top. Bake at 350 degrees for 35 minutes, uncovered. Goes well with sweet-baked squash, pumpkin or candied sweet potatoes.

Crack Corn Salad

Crack Corn Salad

Crack Corn Salad

 

4 C. sweet corn

12 slices cooked bacon (finely chopped)

1/4 C. green onions (chopped)

1 jalapeño (finely diced)

1/2 C. Ranch salad dressing

1 C. cheddar cheese (shredded)

Juice of 1 lime

1 tsp. garlic powder

Kosher salt (to taste)

Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

 

Ranch Dressing:

 

1 1/2 C. mayonnaise

1/2 C. sour cream

1/3 C. whole milk

1/4 C. buttermilk

1/4 tsp. onion powder

2 cloves garlic (minced)

2 T. lemon juice

1 tsp. fresh dill

salt and pepper (to taste)

 

Ranch Dressing: In a large bowl, combine all ingredients for the dressing, stir and set aside.

 

Salad: In a large bowl, combine all the salad ingredients. Add the dressing. Stir until ingredients are completely mixed and coated in dressing. Garnish with herbs, if desired, then serve.

Enchiladas de Mole Rojo

Enchiladas de Mole Rojo

enchiladas-de-mole-negro-o-mole-rojo-oxacan-cuisine3 ½ C. Mole Rojo
24 Corn Tortillas
1 C. Canola Oil
2 ½ C. Cooked Chicken, shredded
¾ C. Queso Fresco, finely crumbled
Small White Onion and thinly sliced
Parsley sprig

Heat the mole over low heat and dilute with water (the mole should be thin). Simmer over low heat for 10 minutes or until the mole is heated through. Heat the oil in a medium skillet. Using tongs, quickly pass the tortillas in the hot oil to soften. Do not let the tortillas get crispy. Immediately drain the tortillas on paper towels or on a wire rack. Place a tortilla on a serving plate. Place the shredded chicken on one end and roll to close. Repeat with remaining tortillas.  Cover the enchiladas with the warm mole and heat through for 10 minutes. Garnish with queso fresco, onion, and parsley sprigs.

Blueberry Ocean Tart

Blueberry Ocean Tart

Blueberry Ocean Tart

 

Crust:

1 C. almond flour

1 C. all purpose flour

2 T. coconut butter, melted

4 T. coconut oil, melted

1 T. maple syrup

 

Filling:

1 15oz (400ml) can full-fat coconut cream

â…“ C. maple syrup

â…› C. lime juice

1 tsp. agar agar powder

½ C. cashews, soaked

1 T. Unicorn Superfoods Ocean Blend

 

Topping:

½ C. blueberries

¼ C. blackberries

zest of 1 lime

 

Preheat the oven to 175°C/350°F and grease a 8” (20cm) tart tin. For the crust, place all ingredients into a food processor until you have a sticky and crumbly dough. Transfer to the tart tin and press down evenly to the bottom and up the sides. Fill with baking beans, place in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown. Add the coconut cream, maple syrup, and lime juice to a medium pot over high heat. Bring to a boil, add in the agar agar and let simmer for 1 minute until it has dissolved. Use a whisk to mix everything together. Pour into a heat-resistant high speed blender, add the cashews and ocean blend and blend on high until smooth. Poor into the tart tin and transfer to the fridge for 2-4 hours. Top with blueberries, blackberries and lime zest and enjoy!

Peachy Cheesecake Cupcakes

Peachy Cheesecake Cupcakes

For Peach Mango topping:
2 cups peeled, chopped fresh ripe peaches
½ cup mango juice
â…“ cup sugar
2½ tablespoons cornstarch

For Cheesecake:
3 8-ounce packages cream cheese, softened
4 eggs
1½ teaspoon vanilla
1 cup sugar

For Sour Cream filling:
1 cup sour cream
3 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla

Combine 1 cup of the peaches, mango juice, sugar and cornstarch in a medium saucepan. Cook and stir over medium heat until mixture thickens. Cool for 10 minutes, then add the remaining 1 cup peaches. Set aside. Preheat oven to 300º. Combine all cheesecake ingredients in a mixing bowl and beat on medium speed with electric mixer until smooth. Place paper baking cups into muffin tins and fill cups ⅔ full with cheesecake batter. Bake for 40 minutes. Mix sour cream filling ingredients in a mixing bowl. When the cupcakes sink in the middle, place a tablespoon of sour cream filling into the middle of each one. Place back in the oven for 5 more minutes. Remove from oven and cool. When cool, spoon about 2 tablespoons of peach topping of the top of cupcake.